The Astros hope he can do the same for their young, struggling major league club.

DeFrancesco was named interim manager Sunday, a day after Brad Mills was fired.

“There’s going to be a commitment to excellence,” DeFrancesco said. “Believe me, I want to be the guy that changes the environment around here. I grew up a winner, I had success in the minor leagues, and it’s time for it to translate to the major league level. I’m sure I’m going to make mistakes, but that’s part of baseball.”

DeFrancesco managed Oklahoma City to a 67-60 record and has the RedHawks contending for a playoff spot this season. Houston has the worst record in the major leagues at 39-83.

He takes over an Astros club that is the youngest in the National League at 26.5 years — and even younger than the Oklahoma City team, 27.3 years.

In his third season running the Astros, Mills was dismissed Saturday night after Houston lost to the Diamondbacks, 12-4.

Dan Radison will take over as first base coach and Ty Van Burkleo will be the new hitting coach.